Facing Foreclosure in Kern County: Options and Help

Start with your servicer and independent help

Use the contact information on your mortgage statement. Explain the hardship, ask what assistance is available and how to submit a complete application, and keep copies of notices and correspondence. If a sale date or legal notice is involved, seek qualified legal advice promptly; do not wait for an offer from a buyer.

CFPB mortgage help connects homeowners with HUD-approved counseling. You can also use HUD housing counseling or call HUD at 800-569-4287. A counselor can help organize your finances and discuss options with your servicer.

Consider alternatives to selling

Ask your servicer about repayment plans, forbearance or a loan modification, depending on eligibility. Forbearance generally postpones or reduces payments temporarily; it does not erase what you owe. Ask how missed amounts would be repaid and get the terms in writing.

If keeping the home is not feasible, discuss a sale and, where relevant, a short sale or deed in lieu with the servicer and qualified advisers. These alternatives can involve approval requirements and credit, tax or legal consequences. No option is guaranteed.

CFPB: options when you cannot pay your mortgage · California Attorney General homeowner resources · California Homeowner Bill of Rights

If you compare a property sale

Request current payoff information and an estimated closing statement. Compare the price with mortgage balances, other liens, closing costs and moving expenses. Ask escrow and your advisers whether the proposed timing is feasible. Signing a purchase agreement or listing the home does not itself suspend foreclosure.

In Tehachapi and nearby mountain communities, access, water, septic and property condition can affect a buyer review. Gather records early, but keep communicating with the servicer while evaluating a sale. A cash offer still depends on written terms, title and escrow.

Avoid rescue promises

Be wary of anyone guaranteeing they can stop foreclosure, requesting advance fees for mortgage relief or pressuring you to transfer title. Consult an independent attorney or HUD-approved counselor before signing. Check current assistance availability directly with official sources.

This is general educational information, not legal, tax or financial advice or an offer of foreclosure-prevention services. Call Harbison can discuss a property sale; it cannot promise to stop foreclosure or obtain mortgage relief. Deadlines and protections depend on the circumstances and must be reviewed with qualified advisers.